Album Review

In the case of some rock artists, during their formative years their musical taste is often dictated by friends or an older sibling. But in the case of Goldspot leader Siddhartha, his parents played an important role in shaping his musical vision. Up until he was 14, the only style of music that Siddhartha heard was of the Middle Eastern variety (including such artists as Kishore Kumar and Mukesh). But upon discovering such groups as R.E.M. and the Smiths via the radio, Siddhartha expanded his musical tastes, which eventually led to a musical style/approach that he deems "Bollywood." And it is this style — an ambitious take on alt-pop — that is on display throughout 2006's Tally of the Yes Men (whose title came from a time in Siddhartha's life when he worked at an office job). On tracks such as "Rewind," Siddhartha's vocals sound quite comparable to those of Alex Chilton (circa Big Star's first go-round), while he morphs into a Thom Yorke-like singer on "It's Getting Old," which also features some nifty Cure-like guitar parts. Goldspot's Tally of the Yes Men should appeal to fans of the more tranquil, melancholic moments of Radiohead, Jeff Buckley, and Travis.